Gayathri Rajaraman

Dr. Gayathri Rajaraman is a Senior Lecturer and teaching & research academic at Victoria University's First Year College. As a foundation member of the First Year College, she plays a key role in shaping first-year education experiences at the university. Her work bridges biomedical science research with innovative educational practices in health sciences.

Dr. Rajaraman holds a PhD in molecular biology from the University of Melbourne (2009) and a Graduate Certificate in Tertiary Education from Victoria University (2018). Her educational background includes a BSc Hons from University of Melbourne (2004) and a BSc Medical Science from La Trobe University (2003).

Her research portfolio spans two complementary domains: biomedical science and the scholarship of teaching and learning (SoTL). In biomedical science, Dr. Rajaraman investigates the molecular and cellular mechanisms underpinning adverse pregnancy outcomes such as fetal growth restriction and pre-eclampsia, with emphasis on clinical pathways to improve long-term health outcomes. Her work focuses particularly on molecular regulators of placental and cardiovascular development.

In educational research, she explores student engagement, asynchronous learning design, and educator perspectives on delivery and assessment practices. Her contributions to innovative pedagogy and curriculum design have been recognized through multiple teaching awards. Dr. Rajaraman is committed to advancing interdisciplinary research, embedding scholarly practice in health sciences education, and supporting the transition and retention of first-year students in allied health programs.

Dr. Rajaraman's recent publications demonstrate a clear dual focus on placental biology and educational innovation. Her biomedical research consistently examines molecular mechanisms in placental development and pregnancy complications, while her educational research addresses contemporary challenges in higher education, particularly the shift to online and blended learning models. This dual expertise makes her a valuable contributor to both scientific understanding of pregnancy disorders and the advancement of health sciences education.

• 2021 - VU Vice Chancellor's Award: Outstanding Team Award - Reimagining Blending in Anatomy and Physiology
• 2021 - FYC Block Citizenship Award recipient
• 2020 - Australian Awards for University Teaching Team Award recipient: Programs that Enhance Learning - Innovation in Curriculum Design and Pedagogy Practice
• 2020 - FYC Excellence in Learning & Teaching Team Award recipient
• 2020 - Commendation Letter recipient: Developing & Delivering Remote Education in Anatomy & Physiology

Dr. Rajaraman has demonstrated strong leadership in educational innovation, particularly in the development of blended and online learning approaches for health sciences education. Her work on reimagining anatomy and physiology education during the pandemic has received national recognition. While specific grant details aren't provided in the text, her extensive publication record suggests successful research funding in both biomedical sciences and educational research domains.

As a foundation member of the First Year College at Victoria University, Dr. Rajaraman contributes to a collaborative team focused on improving first-year student experiences. Her interdisciplinary approach bridges biomedical research with educational practice, creating synergies between her scientific expertise and teaching innovations.